Tara Dillon was today (2 February) unveiled as the new CEO of the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

Dillon, who was previously executive director of IQL UK, has been on part-time secondment to CIMSPA since January 2014, leading the institute through its current transformation programme as interim chief operating officer.

Her impressive performance in this time has led to her landing the top job, after CIMSPA announced the beginning of its search for a permanent leader in October 2014.

“I am excited to take up this post as CEO as there has never been a more important time to be a part of the sport and physical activity sector,” said Dillon.

“I’m looking forward to working with the board of trustees and our partners to continue to professionalise our industry and give our members the best career development opportunities possible.”

Dillon has worked closely with the CIMSPA board of trustees as part of the transformation, with chair David Stalker unequivocal in his view that the organisation has made the correct appointment.

“Tara brings with her a wealth of experience in the sport and activity sector and, through her highly successful secondment as interim COO, a strong understanding of how CIMSPA can continue to improve its offer to members,” said Stalker.

“Her appointment marks the start of the next phase of CIMSPA’s development as the institute embraces the leadership role that employers and the wider sector have asked of it.”

Dillon's former employer was equally effusive. RLSS UK chief executive Di Steer, said: “We would like to congratulate Tara on her appointment and thank her for all of her dedication and hard work leading IQL UK, RLSS UK’s trading subsidiary, over the past eight years.

"During this time she has had a remarkable impact and achieved outstanding results. I am certain she will enjoy the same success in her new role."

Martin Symcox has been leading IQL UK over the past 12 months during Dillon's secondment with CIMSPA and will now continue to head the team.

To read an interview with Dillon on the future of physical activity sector apprenticeships, check out the next edition of Leisure Opportunities, available here (p.14) from Wednesday 4 February.